Critical race theory is proven. Let's switch focus to eradicating bigotry from society | Opinion
Theories. Let's talk about it.
I am currently in the Doctoral of Social Work program at the University of Memphis. I have a B.S. in Sociology and a M.S. in Social Work. I really love behavioral science because it is a science that helps “make things make sense.” I was enrolled in a theory class this summer and now I am taking Advanced Social Work Theory. Let me tell you one thing about theories.
As long as a theory exists, it can be modified and overturned when new evidence presents itself. Meaning a theory in its current state is never 100% guaranteed. How do we know that Newton’s Laws of Motion is real? Well Newton ran several tests to determine its validity. How do we know that you should wait 30 minutes after eating a meal before going swimming in order to prevent cramps? Someone tested the theory and decided to share it to the world. What about the Law of Gravity, Supply and Demand and the Law of Thermodynamics? Tested..Tested..Tested.
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Why are we banning Critical Race Theory?
Critical race theory, unlike the Law of Thermodynamics, has only been around since the late 1970s. The theory has been tested, like the Law of Gravity, and the validity has pretty much been spot on.
Does anyone know if CRT was ever taught in any school district in Tennessee? As a former education consultant, I do not recall any teachers implementing CRT in their curriculum. Most teachers are focused on the most critical issue this state is having at the moment; grade level alignment. They do not have the time to educate students how racism is intertwined in the DNA strain of America. They are busy trying to get scholars aligned with their proper Math and ELA level because the schools have not received adequate investments to be successful. Now that is a conversation for another day.
When American history is taught our teachers should not be reprimanded for doing so. Students need to learn about the Three-fifths Compromise and how it impacted the U.S. Constitution and the 14th Amendment. When students learn about the 15th Amendment they will inquire as to why voting restrictions were created based on people's race or color. When it comes to the Civil Rights Act or even the 19th Amendment, they need to know why America had to step up and correct their wrong. If we want to create informed citizens of the United States, we have to include these instances in history in order for us to truly understand America.
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Critical race theory is not set in stone
Theories can be modified and overturned whenever new evidence presents itself. We can change the course of CRT, if we correct the wrongdoings of America. We need to acknowledge that racism exists and systems should be changed to ensure racism is eradicated. Sweeping racism under the rug is not the way. Acting like racism does not exist does not mean that racism never existed and cannot be found in systems in the United States of America.
We are doing our youth a disservice by hiding information. Education allows you to explore and learn various concepts that can either impact their lives or even help them find a career interest. Our next great lawyer, social justice advocate, educator, politician, counselor, scientist or researcher can come from comprehension of what society knows of CRT. Why do we want to place even more restrictions on our children’s educational experience? If America wants to be great, we must acknowledge and fix our ultimate sin; racism in any capacity.
When our youth have to uncover lies on their own, they will hold resentment towards the people or systems they trusted to properly educate them. Trust me, I have worked with many youth that will find my statement logical. Let’s be honest to our youth and provide them the opportunity to fix the forefathers of this nation’s wrongdoings. If we continue to place so many restrictions on education we will find ourselves behaving in the manner of countries that rhyme with omunist.
Let’s be honest with ourselves. Has anyone ever studied CRT?
Justin Singleton MSSW, LSSW is a Doctoral of Social Work Candidate at University of Memphis.
This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Debate over CRT keeps us from ending the racism it teaches us about
